This ’80s concept car represents the turbocharged Dodge Charger that could have been.
Mecum
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You might already be aware that the Dodge Charger has moved away from the V8 engine. However, changes may be happening behind the scenes since “Hemi” is no longer a taboo term at Stellantis. Nevertheless, the new Charger is now equipped with a twin-turbo, 3.0-liter inline-six engine, which appears to be quite fast, but it pales in comparison to the 1982 Dodge Turbo Charger Concept that is set to be auctioned at Mecum.
This aerodynamically designed coupe with gullwing doors served as the official pace car for the PPG Indy Car World Series in 1981 and 1982. Like several other remarkable museum vehicles we have recently highlighted, it has been housed at the Klairmont in Chicago. Larry Klairmont, its owner, passed away in 2021, and his family is now selling off the collection that includes some real treasures. In my opinion, the Turbo Charger Concept stands out as one of the most fascinating items up for auction.
Mecum
The car is powered by a turbocharged 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission. It was designed to lead groups of open-wheel race cars at venues such as the Milwaukee Mile and Road America. I can only imagine that the aerodynamic enhancements were intended to make it easier to navigate those tracks, though they are not the only alterations made. The suspension was modified to widen the front and rear tracks, and components like springs, shocks, and sway bars were upgraded for improved performance. Additionally, it features larger brakes.
Entering the vehicle must feel extraordinary, from the moment the gullwing doors are opened to when you settle into the bucket seats. The dashboard is lined with aircraft-inspired gauges stretching across its width. There are several toggle switches, including one for the Aerodynic light bar on top, which I would love to have in my everyday car. I noticed HVAC controls in the interior images as well, though I would be surprised if everything is still fully operational.
Mecum
Indeed, this car has primarily served as a museum display model for many years. However, it hasn't been neglected in that role. I came across a video of it being professionally detailed a couple of years back, and it appears that all the vehicles from the Klairmont collection have been exceptionally well maintained.
I’m not sure if this car will ever hit the track again, but who knows—maybe a collector will purchase it and showcase it at the Monterey Historics. We may just have to be satisfied with seeing it, lights ablaze, for nostalgia's sake. In any case, it is going up for auction on Saturday, Sept. 12, so be prepared to get your checkbooks out if you have an interest in '80s classics.
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This ’80s concept car represents the turbocharged Dodge Charger that could have been.
Rather than performing smoky burnouts at traffic lights, this Charger was designed to guide Indy cars around oval tracks in the early '80s.